As Mamelodi Sundowns prepare for the decisive second-leg of the CAF Champions League final against Pyramids FC, midfielder Bathusi Aubaas has offered a glimpse into the team’s mood and collective mindset.
Following the disappointing 1-1 draw in the first-leg at Loftus Versfeld, which saw Pyramids snatch a late equaliser, all eyes are on the Brazilians as they seek to claim continental glory on Egyptian soil.
Aubaas’s insights provide a crucial window into how the Betway Premiership champions, Sundowns, are rallying after the setback and what mental fortitude they bring to this crucial clash.
Here’s what the gritty defensive midfielder told FARPost in an interview.
FARPost: You’ve been in Cairo since Wednesday. How are you settling ahead of Sunday’s final?
Bathusi Aubaas: We’ve been in Cairo, it’s not a new thing for us, obviously. We have to focus on the game for tomorrow since we are here. The boys are focused, and each and every one is pushing at training. We are ready to give them a fight.
BATHUSI AUBAAS: ‘WE’RE CLOSE TO GETTING THE BIG FISH’
FP: Playing in Cairo, against a strong Pyramids FC side, presents a significant challenge. How are you preparing mentally for the game?
BA: The simple thing that we need to do is to be positive and have a strong mindset. On the pitch, we have to give them our A-game and push to our level best. Obviously, we want to win the game, so we’ll make sure that our mindset is strong, and then we push forward to wrap up the game.
FP: What kind of game are you expecting in Cairo, and how do you plan to approach it to ensure you score the necessary goals while remaining defensively solid?
BA: They will expect us to play the way we played in Pretoria. But, for now, it’s gonna be another day, another atmosphere. Each and everyone in the team is strong mentally, and the positivity in the team is high. So, we’re approaching this game on a positive note.
FP: How has the team rallied together since the final whistle of the first-leg? Is there a strong sense of unity and determination to turn this around?
BA: I think we’ve been talking as the gents and as a team that we can’t let this trophy slip out of our hands. We’ve been looking for this big fish. Now we are close to getting the big fish, so we have to do everything we can to have it in our hands.
FP: What is the key message being emphasised within the dressing room as you prepare for Sunday?
BA: We’ve been talking about everyone who’s getting a chance on Sunday to give their A-game. We have to do whatever it takes to win the game, apply whatever coach wants to win the game on Sunday.
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